Joanna James
For those who love smoky flavours and enjoy the notes of Arabian spice in their food, Middle Eastern Food is certainly a treat for the tastebuds and is also sure to satisfy your soul! Want to learn more about the best Middle Eastern dishes to try out? Let's take a look at some favourites that people from across the world enjoy.
Call it a Middle Eastern dish or a Mediterranean one, Hummus is still one of the most popular dishes loved by many foodies. Hummus can be found on the menu at top restaurants in Dubai or at your local grocery store. The main ingredient is chickpeas, either canned or boiled at home. The chickpeas are ground together with lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, a bit of chopped garlic and a pinch of cumin powder. This nutritious dip is usually served with freshly baked pita bread, burgers or even baked potato.
Falafel is one of the most iconic street foods in Middle Eastern cuisine. These crispy, golden-brown balls are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, blended with herbs and spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic. Once deep-fried, they develop a crunchy exterior while remaining soft and flavorful on the inside. Typically served in pita bread with fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles, falafel is a vegetarian-friendly dish that delivers both taste and texture. Whether eaten as a snack or a hearty meal, falafel is a must-try for anyone exploring Middle Eastern flavors.
Also known as "Middle Eastern Pizza", this is a delicious flatbread served with a range of other ingredients. The version of Manakeesh that is most enjoyed is one that is topped with za'atar (a mix of thyme, sumac and sesame seeds mixed with olive oil). Manakeesh is also topped with cheese, minced meat and sometimes a combination of both. This could be a light breakfast or snack which goes perfectly with some Arabian coffee or tea.
Halloumi cheese is a deliciously salty and chewy cheese that originates from the Middle East. Known for its high melting point, halloumi is perfect for grilling or frying, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining its soft, gooey center. The cheese is typically made from a mix of goat’s and sheep’s milk, giving it a rich and slightly tangy taste. Grilled halloumi is often served as an appetizer or side dish, drizzled with olive oil and paired with fresh vegetables, honey, or even watermelon for a refreshing contrast. Its unique texture and savory flavor make it a favorite among cheese lovers.
This dip looks quite similar to hummus, however, the ingredients are completely different. The star ingredient of Baba Ghanoush is smoky eggplant (either roasted or grilled). The flesh of the vegetable is scooped out and blended with lemon juice, garlic, olive oil and tahini until smooth and creamy. This delicious dip is served with fresh vegetables and pita bread, which makes for the ideal appetiser or side dish. Baba Ganoush and other Middle Eastern food can be found at restaurants like Qamar by Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort.
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